Eastern Communications Earns Great Place To Work Recognition, Putting People at the Heart of Innovation

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Connectivity for Eastern Communications has always been more than technology. It is about the people who give purpose to every connection. That belief and a people-centered approach are what made Eastern earn its recognition as a Great Place To Work for the third year in a row, as the company's efforts continue to build a workplace where connection and collaboration are integral pillars that cultivate an environment where Eastern employees are empowered and equipped to take on new opportunities and challenges.

For Eastern, the recognition goes beyond an HR milestone. It reflects a workplace philosophy rooted in its High Tech, High Touch approach, bringing together innovation and technology with genuine human connection.

“Our people are at the heart of everything we do. As a company that connects businesses and communities through technology, we also believe in creating an environment where our own people feel connected, valued, and empowered to grow,” said Atty. Aileen Regio, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Bringing High Tech, High Touch to the Workplace

As Eastern continues to evolve as a telecommunications and ICT solutions provider, its people remain central to that transformation. Eastern’s expanding portfolio across connectivity, network, cybersecurity, cloud and data center, and business applications requires employees who are ready to learn, adapt, and innovate alongside a rapidly changing digital landscape.

Simultaneously, Eastern recognizes that technology is only as meaningful as the people behind it. Therefore, its trademark philosophy of High Tech, High Touch extends beyond customer solutions and into employee experience.

Through opportunities for collaboration, learning, recognition, and engagement, Eastern continues to foster a culture where people can contribute meaningfully while developing their capabilities.

This commitment has also earned recognition this year in employer branding and excellence in employee engagement, complementing the company’s Great Place to Work recognition and highlighting its efforts to build a workplace that resonates with both current and future Eastern employees.

Dare to Soar Starts Within

The recognition forms part of Eastern’s “Dare to Soar” campaign. A campaign that encourages the organization to look beyond what it has already achieved and pursue what is possible next. For Eastern, this begins with its people.

From embracing new technologies and developing new capabilities to collaborating across teams and finding new ways to serve customers and communities, Eastern employees are encouraged to grow alongside the organization.

“Dare to Soar starts within. We want our people to see Eastern not only as a place where they work, but as a place where they can learn, contribute, and pursue what they are capable of,” said Mr. Jaeson Evangelista, Co-Coordinator of Eastern Communications.

Building a great workplace is ultimately connected to its purpose as a company. Because behind every network, solution, and connection, Eastern values its people who make progress possible.

Lenovo Tech World Returns to CES 2027 at Sphere to Showcase the Future of Human + AI

Lenovo, a global technology leader, will bring its annual innovation event, Tech World, back to CES 2027 in Las Vegas on January 6, 2027. Hosted at the iconic Sphere and featured in the CES keynote lineup, the event promises an immersive experience combining groundbreaking technology, music, and insights from leading voices in the global technology industry.

The event will highlight Lenovo’s latest innovations and explore how Hybrid AI can combine human intelligence with artificial intelligence to unlock new opportunities for individuals, businesses, and society. Under its “Smarter AI for All” vision, Lenovo aims to demonstrate how AI can enhance productivity, protect privacy, improve efficiency, and support responsible technological progress.

Lenovo Chairman and CEO Yuanqing Yang emphasized that the future is not about choosing between humans and AI, but about bringing them together. Through its Hybrid AI strategy, the company intends to show how people and organizations can transform data into meaningful value while maintaining security and control over their information.

Advancing Hybrid AI for Individuals and Businesses

Tech World 2027 will showcase three major priorities: user-centric AI, full-stack efficiency, and trust. Lenovo plans to demonstrate personalized, context-aware AI experiences that work across multiple devices while prioritizing user privacy. These experiences could connect PCs, smartphones, wearables, and emerging ambient devices into a more unified personal AI ecosystem.

For enterprises, Lenovo will highlight its full-stack Hybrid AI portfolio, which combines devices, infrastructure, software, solutions, and services. The approach is designed to help organizations unlock insights from critical data, scale AI infrastructure, modernize workplaces, and move toward AI-native operations.

Efficiency and responsible AI adoption will also be central themes, with Lenovo emphasizing technology architectures that help customers protect sensitive data, maintain control over their AI capabilities, and maximize the value of their investments.

Strong Business Momentum Fuels AI Ambitions

Lenovo’s upcoming showcase follows significant business growth. The company reported annual revenue of US$83.1 billion and subsequently announced a record first quarter for fiscal year 2026/27, with revenue increasing 42% year-on-year and AI-related revenue growing 60%, according to the supplied announcement.

These results underscore the growing importance of AI within Lenovo’s business strategy and set the stage for further developments at Tech World.

Returning to the Sphere

Lenovo previously hosted Tech World at Sphere during CES 2026, unveiling AI-powered devices, next-generation PCs and smartphones, enterprise AI infrastructure, and technology partnerships.

Tech World @ CES 2027 will take place on Wednesday, January 6, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. The event will be open to credentialed CES attendees and streamed globally, with additional speakers, product announcements, and logistical details to be announced.

As AI adoption accelerates worldwide, Lenovo’s return to Sphere will offer a closer look at how Hybrid AI could shape the next generation of personal computing, enterprise technology, and human innovation.

Subsea Cables Are Critical Infra Requiring Whole-of-Nation Protection -- PLDT

The PLDT Group called for deeper collaboration between government and industry to strengthen the resilience of the country's subsea cable network, emphasizing the role of undersea cable infrastructure as a critical enabler of connectivity, economic growth, public services, and national development.

Representing the PLDT Group at the Archipelagic Governance for Subsea Cables Forum, PLDT Global President and CEO Albert V. Villa-Real underscored the growing importance of resilient subsea cable systems amid rising global concerns over disruptions affecting critical digital infrastructure worldwide. The forum brought together leaders from government, security agencies, regulators, academe, and telecommunications operators to discuss governance, protection, and resilience measures for the Philippine subsea cable ecosystem.

Organized by The Asia Foundation in partnership with the National Security Council Secretariat, National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs and Law of the Sea (UP IMLOS), and the National Telecommunications Security Council (NTSC), the forum highlighted the increasing recognition of subsea cable systems as strategic infrastructure supporting national security and economic resilience.

Speaking from the industry's perspective, Villa-Real said subsea cable networks have become far more than telecommunications assets. "They are national infrastructure. They carry the connections that enable our businesses to operate, our banks to transact, our government to deliver services, and our families to communicate. Increasingly, they also support cloud, data centers, artificial intelligence, and digital services that will shape the next generation of our economy."

His remarks come as governments and operators around the world respond to a growing number of subsea cable incidents that have underscored the vulnerability of digital infrastructure and the importance of building greater network redundancy, route diversity, and coordinated response mechanisms. For the Philippines, an archipelagic nation whose connectivity depends heavily on undersea infrastructure, Villa-Real said resilience must become a national priority.

Villa-Real said resilience must go beyond capacity, calling for greater route diversity, faster restoration, and stronger coordination among stakeholders during disruptions. He also urged closer government-industry collaboration to streamline cable deployment and repairs, strengthen information sharing, and institutionalize incident response protocols. Highlighting the country's strategic location, Villa-Real said the Philippines has the potential to become a major digital gateway in the region. "The Philippines should not think of itself simply as the end point of international cables. Our ambition should be to become a major digital crossroads of the Asia-Pacific."

According to Villa-Real, achieving this ambition will require the convergence of resilient international and domestic connectivity infrastructure, data centers, cloud ecosystems, reliable power systems, and an enabling policy environment that encourages continued investment. He stressed that subsea cable systems should be viewed as part of the country's critical digital infrastructure and supported through sustained public-private collaboration.

"No single company—and no single government agency—can secure the connectivity of an archipelago. It requires a true partnership. If government and industry can work from that shared perspective, then our ambition can go beyond protecting the cables we already have. We can build a Philippine subsea ecosystem that is diverse by design, resilient by architecture, protected through cooperation, and attractive to the next generation of global digital investment."

Faster Cable Restoration Critical to National Resilience

Meanwhile, PLDT First Vice President for Network Design and Engineering Arvin L. Siena, who joined the panel discussion on “The Role of a Resilient Subsea Cable System for Philippine Development," emphasized the importance of reliable connectivity in sustaining government operations, essential public services, business activities, and the country’s digital transformation.

“Connectivity enables governments to serve citizens, businesses to grow, and communities to participate in the digital economy. Ensuring the reliability and resilience of subsea cable infrastructure is therefore not just a network issue, but a key enabler of national development and economic progress,” Siena said.

While telco operators continue to invest in additional cable systems, route diversity, and network redundancy, Siena pointed out that the ability to restore damaged infrastructure quickly is equally important. Submarine cables remain vulnerable to natural disasters, earthquakes, fishing activities, ship anchors, and other maritime incidents. Repairs require specialized cable vessels, many of which must secure multiple permits and clearances before entering Philippine waters.

Siena acknowledged the importance of national security, maritime protection, and regulatory compliance but cautioned that extended approval processes can delay the restoration of essential connectivity. “A cable fault is a technical problem. But an extended outage while repair approvals are being secured becomes a national economic concern,” he said.

To address this, Siena called for a clear, predictable, and streamlined approval process for emergency cable repairs, supported by stronger coordination among government agencies and telecommunications operators.

He also proposed declaring submarine and terrestrial cable routes as critical digital corridors to strengthen public awareness, encourage infrastructure protection, and minimize preventable damage caused by human activities.

“National security and the rapid restoration of connectivity are not competing objectives. We need both security and speed,” Siena emphasized.

As the Philippines advances its digital transformation agenda, the PLDT Group reaffirmed its commitment to working with government and industry stakeholders to protect critical connectivity infrastructure, strengthen national resilience, and help position the country as a leading destination for digital investment in the Asia-Pacific region.

Globe Connects Local Communities with Legal Experts Through 'Konek kay Attorney'

Globe is turning corporate legal expertise into a force for social good with Konek kay Attorney, an initiative that connects underserved communities directly with the company’s lawyers for free legal guidance. By giving its employees an avenue to advocate beyond the workplace, Globe is actively bridging the justice gap, safeguarding rights, and proving that its commitment to uplifting lives extends far beyond business targets.

In partnership with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Rizal-RSM Chapter, Konek kay Attorney offers free one-on-one consultations to qualified beneficiaries, including underserved individuals referred by Globe’s local government and NGO partners, as well as members of the Globe community. The program has also reached partner communities across Taguig, Mandaluyong, and Pasig, bringing legal assistance directly to their barangays.

“Access to legal guidance can make a meaningful difference when people are faced with situations they may not know how to navigate. Through Konek kay Attorney, we want to help people better understand their rights and options, while giving our legal professionals a meaningful way to put their skills in service to others,” said Atty. Marisalve Ciocson-Co, Globe Chief Compliance Officer and Senior Vice President for Legal and Compliance. “It is one way we can use the resources and capabilities within Globe to create a positive impact beyond our business.”

Atty. Eric Paul I. Fetalino, President of the IBP Rizal-RSM Chapter, emphasized that making the law accessible requires bringing legal professionals and communities closer together. “The law can only fulfill its purpose when people can reach it, understand it, and use it. Through Konek kay Attorney, we bring lawyers closer to communities and show what can happen when the private sector and the legal profession bring their respective strengths together for a common social purpose,” he said.

The event brought together leaders from the legal profession, government, and the private sector around a shared commitment to make legal assistance more accessible to communities. Supreme Court Associate Justice and Unified Legal Aid Service (ULAS) Board Chairperson Alfredo Benjamin S. Caguioa delivered the keynote address. He then joined representatives of Globe and the IBP to formalize their collaboration through a ceremonial signing.

“A company built around connecting people has found another meaningful way to do precisely that, connecting communities with legal assistance,” Justice Caguioa said. He added that through Konek kay Attorney, Globe and IBP are helping “bring legal assistance closer to people’s homes, workplaces, and communities,” making access to justice more meaningful.

The program also included a fireside chat on online safety featuring actress and advocate Angel Aquino; Atty. Juan Paolo F. Fajardo, Deputy Commissioner of the National Privacy Commission; Atty. Renato “Aboy” Paraiso, Executive Director of the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center of the Department of Information and Communications Technology; and Globe Legal Counsel Joseph Malcontento. The discussion covered deepfakes, emerging digital risks, and government online safety initiatives, helping participants better understand how to recognize threats, protect themselves, and exercise their rights in digital spaces.

For Globe, the program reflects a broader approach to employee volunteerism that encourages its people to use their professional skills to respond to real community needs. Through Globe of Good, the company continues to mobilize its people, partnerships, and resources to create opportunities for employees to make a difference through what they do best.

Vivo V80 Lite’s 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery Supports Busy Lifestyles

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – From busy workdays to spontaneous city adventures, smartphone users rely on their devices to stay connected, accomplish tasks, and capture everyday moments. However, when battery levels run low before the day ends, even the simplest activities can become inconvenient.

Addressing this everyday concern, Vivo is highlighting the newly launched Vivo V80 Lite, featuring a massive 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery designed to support extended smartphone use. Through social media content, creators are showcasing how the device fits into their demanding schedules and diverse lifestyles.

Powering Workdays and Creative Pursuits

For Dr. Xavier, a dentist, professor, and Cebu-based food and travel blogger, a typical day involves balancing multiple responsibilities. His routine takes him from surgery and clinic duties to teaching, before switching to content creation. Photographing food, filming videos, taking selfies, and producing social media content are all part of his daily activities.

By the time he gets home and checks social media for the last time, his phone still has power, even as he prepares to call it a day.

Meanwhile, Filipino model, businesswoman, actress, and Supermodel Universe International 2025 Yna Angela Uy faces a schedule that can stretch from consecutive meetings to late-night shoots.

In her Instagram content, she demonstrates how the Vivo V80 Lite helps ease battery-related worries, allowing her to concentrate on professional commitments and creative projects without constantly checking her phone's remaining charge.

Lifestyle content creator Bernadeth offers another perspective through a day exploring Binondo. From sampling local food and visiting coffee shops to working and squeezing in a gym session, her itinerary leaves plenty of opportunities to capture memorable experiences.

The Vivo V80 Lite's 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery supports her active routine, while its 50MP Sony Main Camera and 32MP HD Selfie Camera help document food discoveries, city scenes, and selfies along the way.

More Freedom for Everyday Adventures

Although their schedules differ, these creators share a common need for reliable smartphone power. Whether managing professional responsibilities, producing content, or exploring new destinations, having sufficient battery capacity can make a difference throughout the day.

With its 10,000mAh BlueVolt Battery, the Vivo V80 Lite is designed for users who need their smartphones to keep up with demanding routines beyond the traditional nine-to-five schedule.

Consumers can pre-order the Vivo V80 Lite until October 16 through the Vivo Store app or Vivo e-store. Available pre-order perks include a ₱1,000 discount, free Vivo Buds Air3 worth ₱1,799, and a Magnetic Premium PU Leather Card Case.

For users who want to spend less time worrying about battery levels and more time getting things done, the Vivo V80 Lite brings battery capacity and everyday convenience into focus.